iPhone 101: Undo/Redo Typing on OS 3.0

While many of the more experienced iPhone/iPod Touch users out there already know this handy little tip, I have recently come across quite a few iDevice owners who have yet to discover some of the not so obvious functions of the 3.0 firmware. It used to be that whenever you had to delete some text, you would have to tap on the backspace key until the necessary edits have been made. Now, with OS 3.0, all this can be achieved via a simple shake of the iPhone or Touch.

Awesome notes app

This feature is certainly handy for times when you can’t be bothered or are simply tired of hitting the backspace key. Once you shake the iDevice while in keyboard view, a pop up will allow you to Undo and/or Redo Typing. (this works just like the shortcut commands on your PC and Mac CRTL/Cmd Z to to undo and CRTL/Cmd shift+ Z to redo). This will especially come in hand if you accidentally paste a block of text in the wrong cursor position. With ‘undo typing’, you can save yourself sometime by not having to manually delete the chunk of text.

Native Mail App

This shake to undo function works in just about any environment where the user is able to interact with the onscreen keyboard, including the native mail and notes app, mobile safari and a great note taking app called Awesome Notes.

Unfortunately, this feature can’t be turned off for those who find it annoying whenever it is activated by an accidental jolt or shake. Regardless, this is definitely a useful ‘trick’ that all 3.0 users should make use of.

For our run down of the 3.0 Firmware, check out Matthew’s previous article here.